Where would I find glass large enough for a monster tank?

[YoungAquaticPhotos]

I am looking at a 96"x36"x30" tank that would fit nicely on my one wall of my fishroom. The front glass would have to be about 90"x25"? What would be the best place to get a piece of glass this size? Also, what would be the best thickness? Plus how expensive would it be? Would Acrylic be better or cheaper. Where could I find a place that sells acrylic? Is it best to use a liner or just wood with marine paint?
I would like to start building this over the winter and have all the supplies ahead of time.
I live in Southeastern Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia.

Thanks!
Ed

 

[Bud_Man_Jr]

acrylic is better

 

[Dr Joe]

Bank drive-up windows !

Siriously tho, you have to get glass prices locally. Depending on how close the shop is located to a distributor. their freight will be different and that is the biggest price differential in the equation.

Things to look for:

Glass shop that does large commercial work (may have glass in stock)

Salvage companies. They pull everything out of buildings - for resale.

Look for building demolition sites (especially a bank) a freind or two and a truck/trailer and you could have all the glass you need.

Acrylic: Is clearer than most thick glass if it matters.

Lighter.

You can drill it easier than glass. (you can do it yourself easier)

Usually costs more than glass.

Scratches easier than glass. Harder to remove algae once surface is worn or aged.

Sealing to something other than more acrylic is more difficult. (so to speak)

Is this going to be a wood tank with glass/acrylic front/ window?

Have you considered doing 2 windows instead of one? Might be cheaper.

Keep us posted on your progress, And lets see some pics of your fishroom

Dr Joe

.

 

[zennzzo]

I have heard somebody getting them from old stores in bad neighborhoods that had bullet proof plexi installed, Bank Drive up windows would work. any building salvage company could hook ya up with somebody who has something...

or...

You could click on this link here and buy new Cell-Cast Acrylic stock any size you want up to 3" thick...
Pic has 3/4" and 1" calculations for full 48"x96" sheets and custom cut 25"x90" sheets


http://www.professionalplastics.com...r=3&prname=ACRYLIC-SHEETS---CAST---Plexiglass

 

[Tongue33]

acrylic is better

I completely disagree.. I would rather have glass myself.. I love my glass tank s I am going to lovce my Acrylic one too.. But its just not going to be the same.... Glass in my opinion is easier to maintain.

But any way.. Malls are always doin demo's and the glass that comes out is usually trashed or given to a friend... I have a whole lot of glass in my shed right now.. Not that size but thats cause it all left before i got there Likle stated earlier gas staion being demo'd.. If you know the right people you can pick up the cashier window for free

 

[YoungAquaticPhotos]

Thanks for all the help everyone! I am really leaning towards Glass due to having a few acrylic tanks and glass is easier to maintain and not scratch so easy. I will search for Demolition sites and salvage places.
My other question was: do I use a liner in it or just the wood and marine paint?
Thanks again!

 

[zennzzo]

Thanks for all the help everyone! I am really leaning towards Glass due to having a few acrylic tanks and glass is easier to maintain and not scratch so easy. I will search for Demolition sites and salvage places.
My other question was: do I use a liner in it or just the wood and marine paint?
Thanks again!

There is a thread in the DIY forum on a wooden tank with a glass front...
I would go to AquaticEcoSystems and look at their offerings as far as liners and "Sweetwater" finishes...